Vivian E. Gibbs

Vivian E. Gibbs, 93, of Sioux City, went home to be with her Lord and Savior Jesus on September 23, 2025. A graveside service will be held at Newcastle Cemetery, Newcastle, Nebraska on Saturday, October 4 at 11:00 a.m.

Vivian grew up in the Back Bay community of Virginia Beach, Virginia. One day, she met a young airman from Newcastle, Irwin Gibbs, whom she married in March of 1952 in Elizabeth City, North Carolina. Their adventure over the next 20 years led them across the country from one Air Force base to another, serving the military while raising three boys. When Irwin retired in 1970, the family settled in Southern Pines, North Carolina as the sons embarked on careers of their own.

From 1993 to 2000, Irwin and Vivian engaged in missionary work with the Lakota Sioux tribe near Rapid City, South Dakota. For health reasons, they then relocated to Burbank, South Dakota, where they spent their last 22 years together on earth.

Vivian always focused on being a devoted wife, mom, and grandma. At times, she supplemented the family income by babysitting in her home. In this role, she profoundly touched the lives of other families by providing a safe, loving, learning environment for toddlers and preschoolers, as she had for her own boys. With her three sons grown, Vivian also worked part-time as a local business and church secretary. Wherever she was, Vivian was known for her radiant kindness and sweet spirit.

Until her most recent health challenges, Vivian could always be found at services and activities of her local church. Most recently, she and Irwin had been members of Heritage Baptist Church in North Sioux City, where they leave behind a cherished church family.

Vivian is survived by her sister, Glenda Lane of Virginia Beach; sister-in-law Glenda Gibbs (Dale) Kuhlmann of Idaho; sons Michael Lynn (Patricia) Gibbs of Sioux City and Larry Dale (June) Gibbs of Tennessee; daughter-in-law Sherol Gibbs; 11 grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by parents Russell B. and Retha Capps; husband Irwin D. Gibbs; son Donald Lee Gibbs; brother Russell B. Capps, Jr. and wife Evelyn; sister Margaret Capps Cartwright and husband Walter; brothers-in law Lee Gibbs (and wife Helen), Merle Gibbs (and wife Dorothy), Howard Gibbs (and wife Darlene), and Albert Gibbs (and wife Pauline).

Vivian spent the past few years in the care of Michael and Patty Gibbs, followed by a few months in assisted living, before passing on to her eternal rest. She will be remembered and admired by those who remain, and celebrated on the other side by those who have now greeted her in glory along with her risen Lord.